Shanelle, 19 years old, OR | NEEDED BY 01/24

Wish submitted by:

Shanelle entered foster care at twelve years old and spent the next six years moving in and out of different foster homes. The instability shaped her teenage years, forcing her to grow up quickly while navigating systems that often felt overwhelming and impersonal. Even so, Shanelle paid close attention to the social workers, advocates, and adults around her—learning both what helped and what was missing. Those experiences planted a seed that would later grow into her purpose. Today, Shanelle is in school studying to become a social worker, driven by a deep desire to support kids who are walking the same paths she once did. Between work and classes, her schedule is full and her free time is limited, but she finds peace in small moments of creativity. When she has a chance to slow down, Shanelle loves coloring and spending time with adult coloring books—using art as a way to decompress, reflect, and care for herself as she continues working toward a future rooted in service and compassion.

Shanelle is also asking for a cute new dress to wear for her birthday this year. She doesn’t often get the chance to buy something just for herself, especially with her focus on school, work, and staying afloat. Having a dress she feels good in would help her celebrate her birthday feeling confident, seen, and appreciated—marking the day not just as another year older, but as a moment to honor how far she’s come.